What are porcelain veneers?

Porcelain Veneers are single or multiple unit prosthetics that are used to enhance cosmetics in a patient's smile. Anyone who has front teeth that are slightly crowded, malpositioned, or discolored can use porcelain veneers to correct the problem and improve the looks of their smile. Porcelain veneers can also be used to close spaces between teeth. Patients should consult with their local dentist about the advantages and disadvantages of veneers for their particular needs. Often times patients with teeth that are not in the ideal position should consider orthodontic braces first. This can make the overall end result much more appealing to the patient. Veneers require a very conservative removal of the enamel of the teeth. Veneers are mostly used for the front six to eight teeth on the top and bottom. They only cover the facial, or front, surfaces of the teeth, so they only require removal of enamel on that surface. For this reason, they are more conservative than full coverage crowns. The patient usually has two to three visits with their dentist to perform the procedure. On the first visit, the dentist will usually take impressions of the teeth to make models in order to assist the lab technician in designing the veneers. The second visit involves the dentist preparing the teeth and putting temporary veneers in place. The patient should approve the look of the temporaries, because often the dentist will have the permanent veneers match closely to the temporaries approved by the patient. The patient comes to the final visit to remove the temporaries and place the final restorations. The patient has the distinct advantage of being able to approve the exact size, shape, and shade of their new smile. The veneers are then cemented into place. The patient must continue his or her regular six month hygiene visits to continue to maintain the integrity of the gums and teeth, including the ones covered with the veneers.